Greg Oden Scores First NBA Basket In Nearly Five Years

Greg Oden was once a can’t-miss prospect, the next coming of LeBron James, but on Wednesday the center was just happy to be scoring his first NBA basket in five years.

After a string of injuries at the start of his NBA career derailed Oden, the big man finally made his way back into the league this year with the Miami Heat.

Oden came in off the bench in the Heat’s game against the Washington Wizards, grabbing an offensive rebound and scoring on a putback dunk. It was the first time that Oden had suited up since December 5, 2009, a game in which he injured his knee in the first quarter.

Though the Heat would lose the game, their third loss in a row, Greg Oden was a bright point for the Heat. He had two dunks, two free throws, and made a pair of free throws.

Greg Oden said it felt great to suit up for the first time in more than 1,500 days.

“Earlier today, coach said I could dress,” Oden said after the game. “I didn’t know if I was going to play or not, but I got out there and I did, and I’m happy I got the chance.

“It felt good, just being able to be back out on the court. Honestly, the big thing is, to be able to have now that connection now with my teammates. I’ve been here, I’ve been around, but when you’re not playing, sometimes deep down you don’t really feel part of the team as much. I’m happy I can do that.”

When he was signed this summer, Oden said his rehab process was long and he was ready to contribute in any way he could.

Oden said: “I can run… The past three years, I haven’t been able to do that. … I’ve got a lot to prove to myself. I’ve been rehabbing for three years. … It’s been a long road.”

Greg Oden said the Heat’s plan is to keep getting him playing time as he shakes off the rust and readjusts to the NBA.